Nationwide Strike: Bharat Bandh Set to Disrupt Key Indian Sectors on July 9th

A nationwide strike, dubbed Bharat Bandh, is set to disrupt key sectors across India on Wednesday, July 9th. Over 250 million workers are expected to participate in the protest, organized by a coalition of 10 central trade unions and supported by farmers' and rural workers' organizations. The strike is a demonstration against what the unions perceive as "anti-worker, anti-farmer, and pro-corporate" policies of the central government.

Here's a breakdown of the key points regarding the Bharat Bandh and its potential impact:

Who is Orchestrating the Bharat Bandh?

The Bharat Bandh is being spearheaded by a joint platform of 10 prominent trade unions: INTUC, AITUC, CITU, HMS, AIUTUC, AICCTU, SEWA, LPF, UTUC, and TUCC. These unions have united to voice their collective discontent with the government's labor and economic policies.

What's the Impetus Behind This Strike?

The strike stems from 17 unresolved demands submitted to the Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya by the unions last year. A primary grievance is the government's perceived inaction on addressing labor concerns and its failure to convene the Indian Labour Conference, a crucial forum that has not been held for a decade.

Labour Codes: A Major Point of Contention

The unions are vehemently opposing the four labour codes enacted by Parliament. They argue that these codes weaken workers' rights, diminish the power of unions, extend working hours, and decriminalize violations of labour laws by employers.

Allegations of Favoritism Towards Corporations

In a joint statement, the trade unions have accused the government of abandoning the concept of a welfare state and instead prioritizing the interests of both domestic and international corporations. They contend that the current administration is aggressively pursuing policies that promote privatization, outsourcing, and the casualization of the workforce.

Which Industries Are Likely to Experience Disruptions?

The Bharat Bandh is anticipated to cause disruptions in the following key sectors:

• Banking and financial services
• Postal services
• Coal mining and factories
• State transport
• Public sector units
• Participation is also expected from employees of companies such as NMDC and other government-operated steel and mineral firms.

Will Bank Services Be Affected?

While banking unions have not officially announced closures, organizers indicate that employees from public sector and cooperative banks will be participating in the strike. This could potentially disrupt branch operations, cheque clearances, and customer services in various regions.

Support from Agricultural Sector

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha and various agricultural labour unions have pledged their support to the Bharat Bandh. They are planning large-scale mobilizations in rural areas, expressing concerns about rising unemployment, inflation, and reductions in funding for education, healthcare, and welfare programs.

Impact on Schools, Colleges and Offices

Educational institutions and private offices are generally expected to remain open. However, some disruptions are possible. Public transportation, including buses, taxis, and app-based cab services, may be affected in certain cities due to roadblocks and protest marches.

What Services Will Remain Operational?

Schools, colleges, and private businesses are likely to continue operating unless local circumstances dictate otherwise.

Essential services, including hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement, are expected to function as usual, although road access may be temporarily affected in some areas.

History of Trade Union Actions

This is not an isolated incident. Similar nationwide strikes were organized on November 26, 2020, March 28–29, 2022, and February 16, 2024, all of which saw significant participation from both the public and private sectors.

As the Bharat Bandh approaches, both urban and rural areas should anticipate potential slowdowns in services, commuter delays, and increased political activity. Organizers have urged workers across all sectors to ensure the strike is a resounding success, while citizens are advised to plan their activities accordingly.